Operating Engineers & Other Construction Equipment Operators

Operate one or several types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement. May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.

On the job, you would:

Learn and follow safety regulations.

Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.

Locate underground services, such as pipes or wires, prior to beginning work.

Engineering and Technology

building and construction

mechanical

Business

management

Basic Skills

keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements

Problem Solving

noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Controlled Movement

quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat

use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down

Hand and Finger Use

hold or move items with your hands

keep your arm or hand steady

Attention

do two or more things at the same time

pay attention to something without being distracted

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

They do well at jobs that need:

Attention to Detail

Dependability

Cooperation

Concern for Others

Independence

Self Control

You might use software like this on the job:

Facilities management software

Maintenance record software

Time accounting software

Work record software

high school diploma/GED or certificate after high school usually needed